Choose your metal

The metal you choose is just as much a part of your jewellery as the diamond it holds. Each precious metal has its own colour, weight, durability and price point. Here is the atelier's quick guide to choosing.

Platinum

Platinum (950 parts per thousand pure) is the densest and most durable metal we work with. It is naturally white, hypoallergenic, and develops a soft patina with wear that many collectors come to prefer. Platinum will not lose its colour over time, unlike white gold which needs occasional re-rhodium-plating.

• Hallmark: 950
• Colour: Bright, cool white. Does not need re-plating.
• Density: Heaviest. A platinum ring feels substantial in hand.
• Best for: Engagement rings, eternity rings, anyone with metal allergies.
• Price: Highest of our metals.

18k White Gold

18 karat (750 parts per thousand) gold alloyed with white metals (palladium or silver) and then finished with rhodium plating for that bright white look. It costs less than platinum but needs a re-plate every 18-36 months to keep its colour.

• Hallmark: 750
• Colour: Bright white when plated; will warm slightly between plates.
• Best for: Buyers who like the platinum look but at a more accessible price.

18k Yellow Gold

18k yellow gold is the warmest and most traditional of our gold options. The yellow deepens slightly over decades. It develops character; it does not fade.

• Hallmark: 750
• Colour: Warm, rich yellow.
• Best for: Antique and vintage settings, warmer skin tones, heirloom commissions.

18k Rose Gold

Pink-toned 18k gold, alloyed with copper. Romantic, contemporary, and increasingly popular for engagement rings. The copper makes it slightly harder than yellow gold.

• Hallmark: 750
• Colour: Soft pink. Tone deepens marginally over time.
• Best for: A modern look, paired with diamonds it gives a vintage-romantic feel.

9k Gold

9k gold (375 parts per thousand) is harder and lighter on the wallet than 18k gold, with the trade-off of a slightly paler colour and a higher proportion of base alloys. Excellent for everyday wear and for younger buyers who want the look without the 18k price.

• Hallmark: 375
• Best for: Everyday wedding bands, everyday jewellery, value-conscious buyers.

Recycled metals

All Buy Fine Diamonds metal is 100% recycled and SCS-certified - we never use freshly mined metal. Reducing the environmental cost of jewellery without compromising on appearance or durability.

Allergies and sensitivities

If you react to costume jewellery, the culprit is usually nickel. Our platinum and 18k golds are nickel-free. 9k gold contains a small amount of nickel as standard; ask us about nickel-free 9k alloys if it's a concern.